Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing on your artery walls. When it stays high, the heart and blood vessels are under constant strain.
High blood pressure (hypertension) usually has no symptoms, which is why it is called the silent killer. Left untreated it raises the risk of stroke, heart attack and kidney disease. Regular measurement is the only way to know your level.
Know your numbers
Blood pressure readings (mmHg)
Top number (systolic)
Bottom number (diastolic)
Normal
Top number (systolic)
Below 120
Bottom number (diastolic)
and below 80
Raised
Top number (systolic)
120 – 139
Bottom number (diastolic)
or 80 – 89
High
Top number (systolic)
140 or higher
Bottom number (diastolic)
or 90 or higher
Emergency
Top number (systolic)
180 or higher
Bottom number (diastolic)
or 120 or higher
One high reading isn't a diagnosis. Rest 5 minutes, measure twice, and record readings on several days.
Signs to watch for
- Most people have no symptoms at all
- Headaches, often at the back of the head in the morning
- Dizziness
- Tiredness or a pounding heartbeat
- Nosebleeds (uncommon)
What you can do
- Use less salt and fewer salty foods like processed meat, crisps and stock cubes
- Eat more vegetables, fruit and beans
- Be active for at least 30 minutes on most days
- Limit alcohol and stop smoking
- Measure at home and take medicines exactly as prescribed
Get medical help now if
- A reading of 180/120 or higher with chest pain, shortness of breath or severe headache
- Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, or trouble speaking
- Sudden changes in vision
This page is general health education and does not replace advice from a doctor or health worker.